How To Safely Enjoy A Full Moon Party in Thailand - Guide to Backpacking in Thailand

In Thailand, full moon parties are one of the biggest draws for international travellers. Originated by backpackers in the eighties, a full moon party has become an experience that is not to be missed. The crazy thing is that, despite happening every single month (with quarter moon and half moon parties in between), full moon parties tend to live up to the billing. They're fun and exciting and will exceed all expectations.

If you’re travelling to Thailand, you need to plan for a full moon party to ensure you have a safe experience. You can easily travel from Bangkok to Koh Phangan on the day of the party. Here is what you need to know.

Stay Away From Drugs

It doesn’t matter how liberal your country or government is regarding drugs of any kind. In Thailand, any drugs can get you actual jail time. What would be safe back home can take your entire life off track in a country like Thailand. While it is possible to get drugs at the full moon parties, there is a chance that the person offering them is an undercover policeman. Because the severity of the punishment is so bad, it’s not worth the risk.

Don’t Go Swimming When Drunk

The beach is the perfect place for a party, and you’ll love being right by the sea. That said, do not go swimming. The currents can be strong, and if you’ve been drinking, you may not be able to handle them as usual. People do drown at full moon parties every year. Staying out of the sea is the only surefire way to not be one of them.

Don’t Jump Rope and Play With Fire

One of the most popular activities at full moon parties is jump rope. If that doesn’t sound exciting or dangerous, you need to know that the rope is on fire. The thing is, this isn’t one of those things where the danger is all in your head. Fire, not fear, is what’s dangerous. People get seriously burnt jumping rope, which isn’t surprising considering many people do it while intoxicated. Even if you’re excellent at jumping rope and completely sober, you can’t be sure someone else won’t stumble in and make it that much more difficult.

Leave Your Valuables Behind

Expensive property has a tendency to go missing at full moon parties. Take nothing but the essentials, leaving your valuables behind at your hotel, hostel, or Airbnb. Here’s our recommended list of party backpacker hostels in Koh Pah Ngan and Koh Tao.

Avoid Scooters

Taking a scooter to and from a full moon party might be convenient, but Thailand has one of the highest vehicle fatality rates in the world. Even if you haven't been drinking, many other people have, and your life is particularly at risk on a scooter around a full moon party.

Wear Shoes or Sandals

You may reasonably expect to go barefoot at a full moon party. After all, you’re on the beach. The problem is that there is inevitably going to be glass from broken bottles, along with many other such hazards, scattered on the beach. You’re going to feel it before you see it. Wearing footwear is a reasonable precaution to take, and shouldn’t detract from your experience.

With these tips in mind, you can get the most out of a full moon party. Enjoy yourself and stay safe!

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